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The Best Bookkeeping-Focused Tax Firms for Small Businesses: Our Top 5 Picks

ABC Staff
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The Best Bookkeeping-Focused Tax Firms for Small Businesses: Our Top 5 Picks

By Dr. Ryan Moriarty, Done For You Tax | December 2024 | Business Technology

We’ve pitted five leading bookkeeping-centric tax and support services against each other—ranging from full-service firms like Done For You Tax and 1-800-Accountant, to tech-assisted options like QuickBooks Live Expert Assisted, The Collective, and Uplinq—to see which delivers the best combination of accuracy, ease, and advisory value for small businesses.

📊 TL;DR: Overall Comparison

Firm Customer Service Price Automation Speed Accuracy Overall Value
Done For You Tax 9 9 9 10 8 9.0
Uplinq 8 7.5 8.5 8 7.5 7.9
1-800-Accountant 8.5 6 8 8 8.5 7.8
QuickBooks Live Expert Assisted 7.5 7.5 8 8 8 7.8
The Collective 8 7.5 7.5 7.5 8 7.7

Scores are 1–10 and the overall value is the simple average of the five category scores.

 1. Done For You Tax — Overall Value 9.0

Customer Service: 9 • Price: 9 • Automation: 9 • Speed: 10 • Accuracy: 8

Done For You Tax is our top pick for small businesses seeking ease, speed, and value. When they say “books closed in 48 hours,” they mean it—and they back it up with pricing starting at $197/month, which is both the most affordable and most performant on the list.

They lean into AI for the heavy lifting of bookkeeping, but they always wrap up the process with a personal touch: your books are finalized with an expert bookkeeper on the phone. No one is left holding the bag.

What customers say: Done For You Tax has earned over 300 five-star reviews, with clients frequently highlighting the relief of finally having clear books, fair pricing, and consistent communication.

2. Uplinq — Overall Value 7.9

Customer Service: 8 • Price: 7.5 • Automation: 8.5 • Speed: 8 • Accuracy: 7.5

Uplinq positions itself as a tech-driven bookkeeping platform that leverages automation and data insights to simplify financial management. It delivers genuinely strong technology—its automation and dashboards are polished, and the real-time visibility into your numbers is a plus. But you’re paying for that sophistication: monthly costs land above many competitors, and for very small businesses that don’t need all the bells and whistles, the price can become a barrier to entry.

Support is quick and professional, but it often feels like you’re dealing with a tech company—efficient yet less personal. If you want a digital-first relationship, that’s fine; if you’re expecting hand-holding or proactive guidance, the vibe may feel a bit hands-off compared to traditional firms.

Bottom line: for startups and mid-sized teams that value sleek tooling and can absorb the higher cost, Uplinq makes sense. For cost-sensitive microbusinesses, the expense can outweigh the benefits.

3. 1-800-Accountant — Overall Value 7.8

Customer Service: 8.5 • Price: 6 • Automation: 8 • Speed: 8 • Accuracy: 8.5

One of the most established names in the industry, 1-800-Accountant offers a full suite of services—from entity formation to tax filing—with year-round access to professionals. Their breadth and brand recognition are undeniable.

Where it falls short is price. Bookkeeping plans start at $399/month and climb quickly as your transaction volume or complexity grows. Many small business owners feel priced out, especially when comparable services come in significantly cheaper.

Support experience: Coverage is broad (phone, chat, and a client portal), and some customers report quick, professional replies. Others mention hand-offs between reps and slower responses during peak tax season. The net effect is dependable help, but not always perfectly consistent.

4. QuickBooks Live Expert Assisted — Overall Value 7.8

Customer Service: 7.5 • Price: 7.5 • Automation: 8 • Speed: 8 • Accuracy: 8

On paper, the combination of QuickBooks Online with live expert help sounds ideal. In practice, many small business owners find the experience frustrating.

The software is powerful enough to handle a company doing $10M in revenue—but that same complexity can make it a pain for small businesses. When something breaks, it’s hard to fix—even with help. Users report missed appointments, bounced sessions, and support that doesn’t always resolve underlying issues. If you want your books done without babysitting the process, this can create more stress than it solves.

  1. The Collective — Overall Value 7.7

Customer Service: 8 • Price: 7.5 • Automation: 7.5 • Speed: 7.5 • Accuracy: 8

Built for freelancers and creatives, The Collective wraps formation support, bookkeeping, and tax filing into a clean, guided experience. Its CPAs help navigate self-employment taxes and common optimization paths, and many users say the dashboard reduces the mental load of running a one-person business.

Yes, The Collective handles S-Corp elections and guidance. But every other firm on this list can do that too, which makes the feature less of a differentiator than it first appears.

Users praise the streamlined flow and simple tasks, but some report quirks during more intensive moments like tax season and note that certain integrations could be smoother. Even so, a lot of solopreneurs stick with The Collective for the niche-tailored feel and all-in-one convenience.

© 2025 cnets — Independent-style reviews for small business tools and services.

Brands on the Edge of Globalization

ABC Staff
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Brands on the Edge of Globalization

For decades, business expansion meant opening offices abroad, hiring local teams, and investing heavily in distribution. Today, in a world where borders matter less than bandwidth, the first step of globalization often begins not with infrastructure, but with visibility. 

Press Earth positions itself at this turning point. The U.S.-based platform is designed to help brands whether nimble startups or Fortune 500 giants step confidently onto the global stage by making their stories visible across respected international media. 

The model is simple but transformative: a company submits its story, it passes through editorial review, then Press Earth distributes it through its integrated global network. The result is coverage in trusted outlets, tracked in real time through a dedicated dashboard, with a final report delivered in days. 

For casual readers, the appeal is clear: companies of every size can now share their vision with the world without navigating the maze of fragmented PR agencies. For executives, the strategic value is sharper: media visibility accelerates market entry, strengthens investor trust, and transforms brand perception into a measurable asset. 

As markets become borderless, the companies that thrive will be those that globalize not only their operations but also their narratives. Press Earth’s vision is to lower the barriers to that transition, ensuring that a brand’s story doesn’t stay local it becomes global.

How KULR technology is positioned for major success in 2025/2026

ABC Staff
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How KULR technology is positioned for major success in 2025/2026

By Dominick Delpech 

The global drone battery market is on track to soar from $9.5 billion in 2025 to nearly $50 billion by 2035, driven by rising demand for autonomous systems in both commercial and defense sectors. 

This comes as President Donald Trump’s executive orders 14307, “Unleashing American Drone Dominance,” and 14305, “Restoring American Airspace Sovereignty,” were enacted in June, prioritizing the operations of U.S.-made drone technologies, addressing aerial threats, and protecting critical infrastructure in space. 

As a result, Chinese drones like DJI, which before Trump’s presidency were estimated to hold between 70%-90% of the U.S. market share, could face restrictions or bans, greatly limiting a majority of drone technologies. 

But U.S.-based KULR Technology Group, Inc. (KULR), which has a decade-long heritage in aerospace and defense safety, is now strategically positioned to be a key player in aerospace, Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), and beyond.” 

CEO of KULR Technology Group, Michael Mo, spoke on the trust they have developed with organizations like NASA, the Army, Navy, and even Lockheed Martin. 

“Our technology has been working with NASA,” Mo said. “We apply the same methodology, testing, and data set to design drone batteries that are trusted by NASA, Army, Navy, and Lockheed Martin.” 

Building on this foundation of trust, KULR has also entered new partnerships to expand its technology into next-generation drone systems. 

KULR recently partnered with Amprius and Molicel to launch KULR ONE Air (K1A) for UAS. 

According to Mo, the new K1A product represents a “pivotal step forward” in translating technologies trusted in space for use in next-generation drones. 

“We’ve built our legacy on delivering energy and thermal solutions for applications where failure is not an option,” Mo said on KULR’s website. “With K1A, we’re applying that same level of performance and reliability to advanced unmanned aircraft systems, which are slated to become more common in our everyday lives.” 

The K1A line pairs KULR’s thermal management systems with Amprius’ SiCore® cells and Molicel’s P50B cells, improving safety, flight duration, and performance for future UAS missions.

According to Mo, this partnership combines KULR’s trusted batteries and heritage with the constantly improving cells of Amprius and Molicel, catering to the “growing demand in aviation”. 

“KULR brings the trusted process, data, and methodology built from decades of work with NASA and the U.S. military. We integrate that heritage into battery pack design, delivering space-level safety at a commercially viable price point for drone customers,” Mo said. “Amprius and Molicel each bring world-class performance, with rapidly growing demand in aviation.” 

KULR’s mastery of thermal management and high-performance energy systems is not limited to drones. The company is applying these capabilities to Bitcoin mining, using its technology to enhance efficiency, safety, and profitability in this rapidly growing sector. 

KULR’s board approved a Bitcoin Treasury Strategy in December of 2024, allowing for up to 90% of its surplus cash to be allocated into Bitcoin. Their starting acquisition included 217 BTC, valued at about $21 million at the time. 

Since then, the company has rapidly expanded its holdings. As of July 10, KULR reports it has expanded its Bitcoin holdings to 1,021 BTC, reporting a 291.2% BTC Yield. 

KULR has also moved into Bitcoin mining. The company deployed 3,570 Bitmain S19 XP mining machines in Paraguay, achieving 750 petahashes per second of capacity, with plans to scale up even further. 

This ambitious approach places KULR alongside other corporations, like MicroStrategy, that are embracing Bitcoin as a treasury and growth asset. 

The results are already visible as in its Q2 2025 earnings, KULR reported revenue hit $3.97 million in Q2 2025, up 63% Year-over-Year, marking the highest quarter in company history. 

They also reported a net income of $8.14 million, or $0.22 per share which shows despite the higher expense, KULR has been able to turn great profits, hugely in part to their Bitcoin strategy. KULR have also announced that they joined the Russell 3000® Index. 

With the rapidly increasing demand for drones and digital economy that is reshaping the world, KULR is carving out a perfect opportunity to capitalize on these new frontiers of technology. 

Its innovations in energy and thermal management are propelling next-generation UAS missions, while its bold Bitcoin strategy is giving the company financial flexibility and visibility well beyond aerospace. 

For investors, the diversification and future vision of KULR highlights how the company is positioning itself not only as a player in unmanned systems, but also as a participant in the digital economy.

What Your Lawn Says About Your Soil: A Guide to Diagnosing Common Issues

Danielle
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What Your Lawn Says About Your Soil: A Guide to Diagnosing Common Issues

To achieve a fantastic-looking lawn and garden, it’s essential to have high-quality soil that provides all the necessary nutrients for your plants and grass. A quick inspection of the lawn and your flower beds can reveal various soil-related problems in your garden, if you know what to look for. If you know what to look for, it is simple to diagnose problems with your soil and remedy these to help your garden thrive. There are various common problems that many UK homeowners experience with their soil, which can impact their garden. These are listed below, along with the signs to look for that indicate a potential issue.

Compacted Soil

If your lawn has bare patches, this can be a sign that the soil is compacted, which prevents the grass seed from germinating and growing. You can fix this relatively easily by aerating your lawn, which will allow the lawn to breathe after being compacted by rain. To aerate your lawn, you can use various tools to help with the process, including spiked attachments for your shoes or even a garden fork. You need to loosen the soil in your lawn using the correct tool and then use a pitchfork or similar tool to create holes in the soil. Once complete, you can add additional soil to the holes created, ensuring the surface is flat and level. Then, overseed and water the area thoroughly.

A Problem With The PH Level

Another common problem that people experience with their soil, which can affect their lawn, is the pH level. The pH level measures the acidity and alkalinity of the soil, which can affect the availability of nutrients for your lawn and flower beds. There are various kits available for purchase that can help you test the pH level. Alternatively, consider purchasing a pH meter that you insert directly into the soil. Once you know which way your soil is out of balance, you can then treat it accordingly. If your soil is too acidic, you can add garden lime to raise the PH level. However, if your pH level is too high, you can use sulphur or organic matter such as pine needles and coffee grounds to bring it back to a suitable level.

A Fertility Problem

You may also find that you have a fertility issue with your soil, which can affect the quality of your lawn and flower beds in the garden. The grass and plants in your garden require micronutrients to grow and remain healthy. If these essential nutrients have been depleted, it will negatively impact the health of your garden. To combat this, you will want to fertilise your soil in your garden regularly, and you should aim to do this around four or five times per year. However, before you start adding fertiliser, it is worth testing your soil to see what nutrients it is lacking. You can do this by obtaining a DIY kit or sending your soil to a laboratory for testing. Common deficiencies include:

  • Nitrogen
  • Phosphorus
  • Potassium

Once you know what your soil is lacking, you can add the necessary nutrients, allowing your garden to flourish and ensuring it has everything it needs for your flowers and lawn to remain healthy.

The above points are some common problems that you can find in the soil of gardens throughout the UK. By addressing the issues listed above, you can help improve the quality and health of your garden, ensuring it remains healthy and thriving. If you regularly inspect these potential issues, you can avoid problems with your soil before they become serious, and ensure you have a healthy and vibrant-looking garden that is the envy of your neighbours.

Shiba Inu Price Prediction 2025: Surge to $0.000081 as Google Trends Ignite Bullish Momentum

Sienna Wilson
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Shiba Inu Price Prediction 2025: Surge to $0.000081 as Google Trends Ignite Bullish Momentum

A major security breach of the Shibarium Layer 2 network has again made news on September 15, 2025, with Shiba Inu (SHIB) being involved in a major security breach in the cryptocurrency world. The attack on the Shibarium bridge linking the ecosystem to Ethereum cost between 2.4 million and 3 million dollars, disturbing investors and leading to a dramatic drop in the price of SHIB.

This accident is a dangerous addition to the meme coin that has been weak in maintaining its pace in the wider market forces. With the news response of traders and enthusiasts, the question emerges concerning the strength of the ecosystem of Shiba Inu and its path to recovery. This paper will look into the specifics of the hack, the short-term consequences of the attack and the future of SHIB within the next few days and even more.

Shibarium Bridge Exploit: Unwinding the Security Breach

A well-known attack on a critical infrastructure part of the scaling solutions of Shiba Inu (the Shibarium bridge) happened earlier in the day. The hackers reportedly exploited vulnerabilities in the smart contract of the bridge, likely due to a flash loan aggregation that allowed them to control the liquidity pools and drain funds.

Foundational evaluations by blockchain security agencies estimate the stolen value to be around 2.4 million in wrapped Ethereum (WETH) and other tokens. However, some outlets estimate it to be up to 3 million at the time of full audits. The Shiba Inu development team was able to detect the breach in a relatively short time, suspended bridge operations to prevent any further losses, and initiated an investigation in cooperation with external auditors.

It is not the first occasion on which Shibarium has been questioned about security. Introduced in 2023 as the Layer 2 network of Ethereum, which is characterised by the large gas fees and the lack of scalability, the Layer 2 network can now be seen as a bustling ecosystem of decentralised apps, NFTs and DeFi protocols.

Nonetheless, it has experienced high growth rates, which sometimes have surpassed solid security controls, giving rise to the previously experienced problems, such as transaction freezes as a result of network congestion. This is what the current adventure highlights as the problems continue to arise within the meme coin ecosystem, where ambitious ventures usually focus more on speed rather than fortified safety.

The Shiba Inu team, headed by a pseudonymous developer Shytoshi Kusama, has made a pledge to be transparent and submit a post-mortem report in 48 hours. Users of social sites such as X (previously Twitter) have given mixed reactions, some of which include increased audits in future.

It could not have happened at a worse time, a time when the larger crypto market was, comparatively, stable. Bitcoin was fluctuating over 115,000 before the afternoon, which is a very promising environment that SHIB could not take advantage of. Rather, the exploit has heightened concerns about systemic risks in meme coin infrastructures, which are being compared to previous DeFi breaches that eroded faith in new blockchains.

Immediate Price Impact on SHIB and Ripple Effects on Meme Coins

After the release of the news concerning the exploit, the price of SHIB collapsed rapidly, falling more than 5 per cent in several hours to trade below $0.0000085. It is a continuation of a long-term declining trend where the token has lost over 99 per cent of its worth since it hit an all-time high of almost $0.000088 at the end of 2021.

The traders who are studying the charts have reported that it has been unable to break the 200-day exponential moving average (EMA), which is one of the key indicators of technical analysis that has served as an obstacle to the upward trend. The unattractive price turnover wiped out the previous successes at the beginning of September, when SHIB momentarily touched the resistance level of about 0.000015, only to fall back into the lack of buying power.

The meme coin Dogecoin (DOGE) fell approximately 3% in sympathy trading, not just SHIB, which had fallen by that time. The meme coin market, which has historically been sentiment-based and not fundamentally based, was sensitive to the news, and the total market capitalisation fell by 2 per cent over the past 24 hours.

The on-chain data indicates a bearish bias in the Investors Consensus, as large holders (whales) have been liquidating and retail traders are shifting to less risky assets. Trading volume on other large exchanges, including Binance and Uniswap, surged briefly, which is a sign of panic selling, but has now carried itself out, as the first shock has passed.

For SHIB holders, the decline in price represents a real-life loss, particularly those who are leveraged on Shibarium. The bridge has been down, and it has stalled transfers, which is freezing millions of assets; thus, it is necessary to put compensation tools in place.

Although there was a slight increase today in the rate at which the Shiba Inu burn, i.e., tokens no longer circulate, this did not keep pace with the bleeding. Analysts describe this incident as a terrible reminder of the risky nature of SHIB, which is not as old as altcoins as Ethereum, which fluctuated at approximately 4,500.

Response at Community and Ecosystem Level: Rallying to Resilience

The Shiba Inu community, also referred to as ShibArmy, has been able to organise fast in reaction to the crisis. On X, hashtags such as SHIB and ShibArmy were flooded with posts with information and speculation about the adventure.

Another popular post by influencers discussed the design of the bridge, and the team should add multi-signature wallets and real-time monitoring systems. Online polls had the users vote on the effectiveness of leadership, and a narrow majority showed that they still believed in Shytoshi Kusama despite the loss.

In addition to direct responses, the event has highlighted the overall ecosystem activities of Shiba Inu. Other projects such as the decentralized exchange, ShibaSwap, and programs in real-world assets (RWAs) are still in operation, and some traders have shifted to presales such as Avalon X, which is a RWA-backed token of SHIB enthusiasts with claims of staking rewards and CertiK audits.

These will help make SHIB more than mere speculation, as the company will need to diversify beyond being a Dogecoin competitor. Nevertheless, the critics believe that until Shibarium becomes fully operational, there will be no growth in adoption, a factor that may make users resort to their rivals, such as Solana-based meme ecosystems.

The event is also coming under regulatory scrutiny. As the world becomes more interested in crypto regulation, such a hack may also receive more scrutinising eyes by the SEC, in particular, considering that the hack may have been carried out in relation to the exchanges located in the U.S. The team of Shiba Inu has been keen on adherence in previous developments, but the present breach challenges that story today.

Long-Term Prognosis: SHIB Can Claim Glory or Zero More?

In the future, the recovery of Shiba Inu depends on the speed of overcoming the exploit and the new development of the ecosystem. According to the analysts, the most effective opportunity of the token to restore to the state of 0.00003 a psychologically significant figure is the ability to exceed the 50-day EMA, which could be caused by such positive news as the recovery of funds or the emergence of significant partnerships.

The long-term forecasts are more positive: in 10-20 years, SHIB might rise to 0.0001 and beyond in case Shibarium becomes a strong DeFi centre and token burns increase at a faster pace, decreasing supply. Such gains would likely require a significant adoption, possibly through integrations with Web3 gaming or metaverses, given its current market cap of approximately $5 billion.

Yet, challenges abound. The meme coin sector is noisy, and new entrants, such as a so-called 2025 competitor, are posing a threat to the leadership of DOGE and SHIB by introducing new approaches to finance. The history of SHIB – a 2021 boom and the following hype stagnation – reveals that the company is vulnerable to the hype cycles.

A skyrocket around the 35 millionths of a dollar occurred temporarily in early 2024; however, a more lasting expansion requires basics and not memes. Provided that the team can respond to the security breaches and increase utility, SHIB is likely to stabilise; otherwise, it may decline further to the bottom.

To recap, September 15, 2025, is a turning point in the history of Shiba Inu as it will be a combination of a crisis and an opportunity. The Shibarium exploit has been used to reveal vulnerabilities, but has also made the community stronger and reminded investors of the strength of meme coins.

The narrative of SHIB is not yet over, and with fluctuations and unwavering energy, the crypto market is developing. In the meantime, holders are encouraged to watch official channels attentively, and newcomers could wait until the skies become clear to jump in. The ShibArmy is here to stay, and the latest news is a lesson in the risky game of digital assets.

Gift Hampers International: Luxury Gift Giving Simplified

Danielle
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Gift Hampers International: Luxury Gift Giving Simplified

In today’s age of globalization, your business contacts and social circle are often scattered in a number of different countries. A business contact in London, a business partner in Berlin, a pal in Paris, all must be made to feel special despite distance. But handling cross-border logistics, customs regulations, and finding a gift that will actually impress becomes a problem suddenly.

That’s where Gift Hampers International enters the picture. We’re the experts in simplifying European gifting into a delightful, reminiscent experience that’s indulgent and hassle-free, shipping beautifully presented hampers to top EU destinations, the UK, and beyond with ease. For business thanks, milestone celebrations, or an employee “thank you,” our hampers bring your thoughtful gesture there in style and with panache.

Who We Are: Your Partner in Upscale Gifting

We at Gift Hampers International believe strongly that gift-giving must be more than a transaction, but a pleasure. We are dedicated to delivering lovely hampers safely and with meticulous attention to detail to multiple countries across Europe.

We realize that presentation and content are everything. A gift is not just what’s inside, but what story it will tell, what emotion it will convey, and what memory it will create. What we want to do is easy, remove the stress of global gifting so that you can keep on developing your relationships and marking life’s occasions.

What Makes Our Hampers Special

By presenting a Gift Hampers International hamper, you’re giving an experience, not a package. We meticulously curate each hamper to bring luxury, indulgence, and consideration in equal measure.

Luxurious Curation

We create each hamper to look and feel luxurious. We personally select quality treats from across Europe, including:

● Gourmet food, Artisan cheese, specialty biscuits, and homemade preserves
● Fine liquors and wines, Carefully selected bottles from the best vineyards and distilleries
● Handmade sweets and chocolates, Exquisite sweets that make each bite an unforgettable experience
● Non-alcoholic and specialty sweets, From fizzy juices to health-centric sweets, we have something to match every palate

We aim to design a hamper that not only impresses, but conveys a message and leaves a lasting impression on the recipient.

Easy Delivery

One of the greatest challenges of international gifting is knowing your gift is going to reach the destination on time and in pristine condition. With our network of trustworthy logistics, it’s easy to send a gift to any corner of Europe. It’s just a matter of clicks, and we do all the work from packaging to shipping to clearing customs.

We also have tracking details so you know the precise moment your gift is dispatched and delivered. At every step, from the time you order until you receive it, we handle it with precision and care.

Thoughtful Selection

We understand that every one of your recipients is unique, so we offer hampers that will cater to every taste and dietary need. If your recipient prefers a non-alcoholic drink, is following a special diet, or just likes rich indulgences, we have a hamper to suit their taste.

Our ranges are updated seasonally, infusing seasonal treats, new discoveries, and current gourmet styles, so your gift stays fresh, interesting, and thoughtful.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Gift Hampers International offers something for every occasion. Regardless of the occasion, our hampers are designed to stay in the memory.

Corporate Gifting

Gratitude leads to business relationships. Sending a good quality hamper to employees, partners, or customers is a simple and effective way of expressing gratitude and forging bonds. Our corporate gifting packages offer:

● Branded messages: Add your company logo or personal message
● Bulk ordering: Perfect for holiday gifts or big corporate events
● Premium packaging: Having a luxury unboxing experience that is in line with your brand’s high quality

Whatever is being used to signify the end of a successful project, employee recognition, or customers’ loyalty, our hampers are a powerful and lasting impression.

Personal Celebrations

The milestones must be toasted, and our hampers are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or just because. They’re a decadent and considerate change from the usual presents, with lovingly curated contents to bring a smile.

● Birthdays: From tasty delights to gourmet delights, we craft hampers to put a smile on anyone’s birthday
● Anniversaries: Celebrate love and friendship with a hamper that’s crafted to share and delight
● Seasonal Celebrations: Christmas, Easter, and other celebrations are made memorable with carefully selected products in elegant packaging

Thank You & Congratulations

Hampers are also ideal for congratulating achievement or thanking you. When you are celebrating a promotion, a milestone, or thanking someone for goodwill, a luxury hamper says it all.

● Graduations and achievements: Congratulate your family members, friends, or business partners with a considerate and pampering gift
● Host/hostess gifts: Arrive at gatherings with a gift that impresses and delights
● Acts of appreciation: Sometimes, a “thank you” is best expressed through a beautifully curated hamper

Seamless Shopping for Every Region

We’ve created a simple and confident shopping experience for all our customers.

You can visit our Gift Hampers International website to see all the countries we deliver to, with the same great standard of quality and service wherever you shop.

How It Works

Sending a hamper abroad is simple:

● Browse: Visit the website for the country where your recipient is, to see the collections and prices available
● Select: Choose the perfect hamper for the occasion and budget
● Personalise: Add your own message or note to make your gift that little bit special
● Checkout: Order now with prices including delivery free of charge
● Relax: We pack your hamper with care and send it, sending tracking and confirmation details

Regardless of distance to the recipient, your gift is nicely presented and delivered on time, leaving an impression.

Why Use Gift Hampers International

● Reliable Service: We arrange every detail of overseas delivery
● Curated Excellence: Hampers are handcrafted for indulgence and luxury
● Variety & Choice: Hampers for any occasion, diet, and taste
● Peace of Mind: Tracking, free delivery, and personalized service ensure a perfect experience

Send a Taste of Europe Today

Distance has no place in saying thank you. From one gift to a corporate order in bulk, Gift Hampers International gifting across Europe is easy, reliable, and elegant.

Spoil someone special, surprise your loved ones, and celebrate life’s most precious moments with a hamper that speaks volumes, indulgent, personal, and lovingly bestowed.

UnitedHealth Group (UNH) Stock Skyrockets 42% in 2025: What’s Driving the Rally on September 12

Sienna Wilson
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UnitedHealth Group (UNH) Stock Skyrockets 42% in 2025: What’s Driving the Rally on September 12

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE: UNH), the largest health insurer in America based on market value, is catching the eye of investors on September 12, 2025, with a healthy run-up in stock prices. In a stable market where Federal Reserve rate cuts are driven by speculation, UNH stock rose by 1.3 per cent early in the trading, building on an eye-opening 42 per cent gain in the previous month.

This boost comes after a tough summer, and the stock has come out of a low of $410 in early August to about $585 today. With Wall Street treading on uneasy economic terrain, the steady inflation figures, and the increasing number of jobless claims, the performance of UnitedHealth highlights its value as a defensive powerhouse in the unstable healthcare industry.

UNH Stock’s Remarkable Recovery

The story of UnitedHealth stock in 2025 has been one of resilience. The stock has made a dramatic recovery following a 31% YTD decline, through the middle of the summer, which was brought on by regulatory attention and increased medical expenses.

New investor confidence is reflected in the 42 per cent monthly gain, one of the best in the healthcare sector of the S&P 500. The September 12 trading volume increased 18 per cent above the daily average, indicating a high level of institutional purchases. UNH has a beta of 0.54, which makes it stable as opposed to the overall market, where the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 were close to record highs this week.

The rally is in line with the general market optimism. The earlier this week release of the August Consumer Price Index indicated that core inflation was at 0.3, solidifying the view that the Fed will reduce its rates by 25 basis points in early September.

A decreased rate is advantageous to the healthcare powerhouse such as UnitedHealth as it decreases the cost of borrowing and increases the attractiveness of its 1.5% dividend yield. In the meantime, the fact that the unemployment claims were high on September 11 shows the increasing necessity to have health cover, which indirectly favours insurers.

Key Drivers of UnitedHealth’s Rally

UNH is on the rise due to a number of reasons. In September 2025, a securities filing confirmed that the company is performing effectively, offering a sustained increase in Medicare Advantage enrollments and high demand for the data analytics and pharmacy services offered by Optum.

The diversified model under UnitedHealth, which comprises insurance, pharmacy benefit management and direct care via Optum, has cushioned the company against the cost pressures in the industry. Medical loss ratio of the company stood at 84.1 per cent in Q2 2025, much better than other competitors, such as Humana, which has been grappling with greater claims.

Upgrades by the analysts have also been driving the stock. Barclays has also increased its price target to £ 630, based on a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 18, compared with 22 in the sector. Similar optimism was reflected in Morgan Stanley, which highlighted the fact that UnitedHealth was underpriced and its home care division of Optum Health was growing at 13 per cent per year.

Sentiment was also enhanced by high-profile commentary from CNBC reporter Jim Cramer on September 11, in which Cramer wrote, “UNH is a cornerstone of healthcare investing, although there is noise in the regulatory environment.”

Another tailwind is the company’s strategic expansion. In August, UnitedHealth announced its intention to expand its home healthcare services, targeting the ageing U.S. population. The 13 per cent increase in revenue during Q2 in this segment was higher than in the core insurance business, placing UnitedHealth in a position to capitalise on demographic trends. It has more than 50 million members, and no other company can match its bargaining power with hospitals and drugmakers, which helps it in overcoming cost pressures.

Regulatory and Cost Challenges Persist

Even with the bullish action, UnitedHealth has obstacles. A Department of Justice investigation, which was initiated in July 2025, of its Medicare Advantage billing practices still hangs over it. The probe, focused on the alleged upcoding, induced a 6 per cent stock-market decline in July, but recent filings indicate that it did not have a major financial effect so far. Investors are also apprehensive because any fines or reimbursements may make profits less shiny.

Another issue is the increase in healthcare costs. In UnitedHealth, the medical care ratio increased to 85.3 per cent in the second quarter compared to 83.2 per cent in the preceding year due to an increase in elective procedures and skyrocketing drug costs.

This was brought up in the recent earnings call by CEO Andrew Witty, who said: We are taking advantage of value-based care to drive costs, but the environment is complicated. The size of UnitedHealth enables it to obtain good rates, unlike smaller competitors, which cushions the blow.

Uncertainty is brought about by market volatility. As the S&P 500 has been reaching all-time highs, any surprises in the next data, such as the University of Michigan sentiment report scheduled for release later in the day on September 12, could trigger a pullback. Political risks are also looming, and potential changes in Medicare policy before the midterms by 2026 present long-term challenges to insurers.

Why UnitedHealth Is a Top Pick for Investors

We still see overwhelmingly positive analyst ratings, where 26 out of 30 companies, followed by TipRanks, had a Buy rating on UNH. The average price objective of $625 means that the price will rise by 7 per cent.

Earnings per share are projected to grow to $28.75 in 2025, which is 13 per cent growth, but is a result of gaining more members and the growth of Optum. The valuation of the stock at 20 times trailing earnings is also favourable compared to Elevance Health, and the 14% increase in dividends in June is a strong enticement for income investors.

The demographic trends support the long-term perspective of UnitedHealth. As the U.S. Medicare-eligible population is projected to increase by 5 per cent per year until the year 2030, the company is well-placed to tap into demand. This has been differentiated by its integrated model, which combines insurance and care delivery in a fragmented industry.

What’s Next for UNH Stock?

By September 12, 2025, the stock of UnitedHealth Group will show a powerful combination of corporate power, economic momentum, and sector stability. Regulatory and cost pressures should be taken into consideration, but the underlying fundamentals of the company, such as diversified revenue, scale and strategy growth, are what make it an outlier in the modern market. Uncertainty is causing more investors to flock to UNH, whose 42% upswing in the recent past is an indicator of further appreciation to come.

To prospective entrants, the valuation and dividend payout of the share are potential selling points, albeit an understanding of the DOJ investigation, which is likely to occur by the fourth quarter of 2025, may also be a trigger point.

Since healthcare is one of the pillars of the U.S. economy, the capacity of UnitedHealth to tackle obstacles will continue to shed light on it. The current rally is not just a headline; it is a testament to the long-term value of a healthcare giant in a dynamic market.

Ethena Crypto News: ENA Eyes Breakout with $13B USDe and Mega Matrix’s $2B Investment

Sienna Wilson
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0
Ethena Crypto News: ENA Eyes Breakout with $13B USDe and Mega Matrix’s $2B Investment

The crypto market is driving on September 12, 2025, when the ENA token of Ethena has taken centre stage. ENA has a strong potential of a 50 per cent increase to reach $1.20 as a result of whale acquisition, skyrocketing trading volumes, and a solid user base of around 0.77. This surge aligns with an overall market rally, as the total market capitalisation of cryptocurrencies stands at $4 trillion, driven by anticipation of Federal Reserve rate cuts.

The planned departure of Ethena Labs from the USDH stablecoin race of Hyperliquid, combined with the high-profile promotion of its position by BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes and the daring investment thesis of Mega Matrix, makes Ethena a DeFi giant. Ethena is also taking over the stablecoin scene with its synthetic stablecoin USDe, boasting a market cap of 13.2 billion, and therefore, it is a market to look at by both investors and analysts.

Ethena’s Pivot from Hyperliquid’s USDH Signals Strategic Focus

On September 11, through a post on X, Ethena Labs announced that it was withdrawing from the USDH stablecoin proposal by Hyperliquid, resulting in a headline. This relocation was in response to strong community feedback and consultations with validators, a change of direction towards Hyperliquid-native development.

A $5.5-billion decentralised perpetuals exchange called Hyperliquid had bid with stablecoin providers to integrate. Ethena was the first to suggest that USDH be issued on USDtb by Anchorage Digital Bank and backed by the BUIDL fund of BlackRock, with 95% of reserve revenues returned to Hyperliquid.

Ethena was compelled to withdraw due to community concerns about the risks of centralisation and the non-conformity to the native ethos of Hyperliquid. Critics preferred Native Markets, a group focused on the integration of locals, and this is a sign of the increasing popularity of community-based solutions in DeFi.

Ethena currently has its eyes on hUSDe, a Hyperliquid version of its USDe stablecoin, savings products, and card products, as well as derivatives. It is a pivot that, using the balance sheet of USDe, which is $ 13 billion, will increase the liquidity of Hyperliquid without impacting the core assets of Ethena. The move has been greeted with mixed feelings, but many people interpret it as a tactical retreat that places Ethena in an extreme long-term position without overstretching its resources.

Arthur Hayes’ ENA Buying Spree Sparks Market Optimism

Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, has further added to the bullish story of ENA by a substantial amount of token purchases. Between September 12, 2021, and September 12, 2021, Hayes purchased 578,956 ENA tokens valued at $ 467,700 on Binance, and currently holds 5.02 million ENA tokens, which are worth $ 3.91 million. His investment, which is tracked on-chain data, precedes the key governance votes and supports his previous prognosis of ENA being able to grow at least 51x by 2028.

ENA is technically in a cup-and-handle formation, which is a positive indication that it will break out of the resistance at $0.84 to reach $0.95 and $1.16, a 1.618 Fibonacci expansion of this price. The current level of support at 0.73 is still critical; further decrease may initiate short-term selling.

The longs have a big market sentiment, as 72.97 per cent of the perpetuals bets are on gains, though there is a negative funding rate of -0.008 per cent that points to caution. The high-profile relocation of Hayes is attracting retail and institutional interest that could help push the price even higher as ENA grows its reach in crypto circles.

Whale Activity and On-Chain Metrics Fuel ENA’s Rally Potential

On-chain data support the positive momentum of ENA, and whale trading and user performance are at multi-week highs. Addresses and volumes of transactions have been booming, and the level of active engagement in the Ethena ecosystem is high. There was an interesting sale of wallet 0x43d…1B4f2, which bought 11.03 million ENA (equivalent to $8.36 million) at Coinbase for $0.7578. This is a typical whale buying action that sometimes leads to price surges.

August 2024 Ethena In February 2024, Ethena introduced its USDe stablecoin, which reinforced its third-largest stablecoin with a market cap of $13.2 billion. Its model of generating yields, which operates as a combination of staking and derivatives hedging, remains popular with users who want alternatives to USDT and USDC.

Even though there is a 0.67% decline over the last 24 hours, ENA has a technical position and whale flows indicative of a recovery to $0.90, $1.00, and even more to $1.201.30. The bullish sentiment of the broader market, which is being supported by Fed rate cut speculations, is a tailwind, although the macroeconomic changes may create volatility. Ethena has the potential to experience significant growth in the evolving DeFi landscape due to its innovative approach to synthetic dollars.

Mega Matrix’s $2 Billion Bet on Ethena’s USDe Dominance

Mega Matrix, a publicly traded holding company that has been digitalising, has taken a large bet on Ethena with projections of $150 million of revenue in 6-12 months and a 6x premium to ENA.

The executive vice president, Colin Butler, considers USDe a potential direct competitor to USDC, and that its yield-generating capabilities make it ideal as collateral in DeFi. Mega Matrix is filing a shelf registration of up to $2 billion to cumulate ENA, providing retail investors with direct exposure to Ethena by way of a publicly traded vehicle.

The key part of this thesis is a so-called fee-switch mechanism introduced by Ethena, approved in November 2024, which will begin to redirect protocol revenues to ENA stakers on reaching specific milestones, such as circulating supply and adoption targets.

The market cap of USDe is growing to $13 billion, and activation appears to be a short-term event, which could lead to considerable growth in token values. This institutional support serves as a bridge between traditional finance and DeFi, amplifying the popularity of Ethena and attracting capital flows that may reshape the dynamics of stablecoins.

What Lies Ahead for Ethena and ENA Investors

Ethena is at a crossroads on September 12, 2025, and the question is whether it can achieve strategic realignment and market momentum together or not. The Hyperliquid withdrawal shows the community spirit of DeFi, and the fact that Hayes and Mega Matrix promote it adds to the credibility. As USDe dominance and ENA technical structure is pointing to a breakout, investors are looking at near-term profitability in a positive macro environment.

The main risks are the regulatory oversight of synthetic stablecoins and the potential of the Fed to cause a market crash with the rate decision. Nevertheless, Ethena has strong fundamentals and a fortress of $13 billion USD, which gives it strength.

On-chain activity and fee-switch activation can be used as the best entry points for investors to follow. Since Ethena redefines the utility of stablecoins with yield and innovation, it is set to be the wave in DeFi, and it is worth watching among crypto enthusiasts.

The Future of Water: Cadiz, Inc. Reimagines Western Water Security

ABC Staff
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0
The Future of Water: Cadiz, Inc. Reimagines Western Water Security

As climate volatility reshapes the American West, Cadiz, Inc. is leading the way in redefining how water is stored, moved, and treated. Combining natural aquifers, reengineered infrastructure, and advanced filtration technologies, the company is crafting a comprehensive and sustainable strategy to address the region’s most urgent water challenges.

Reimagining Water Infrastructure

Cadiz approaches water not as a single challenge, but as an interconnected system. Their projects integrate long-term groundwater storage, large-scale pipeline conveyance, and community-focused treatment solutions into one adaptive platform. At the core of this effort is the Mojave Groundwater Bank, a 30,000-acre site with the capacity to store up to one million acre-feet of water. By using underground aquifers instead of surface reservoirs, the Bank reduces evaporation losses and creates reliable storage during both flood and drought years.

But Cadiz isn’t stopping at storage. Their infrastructure strategy includes the conversion of a 220-mile decommissioned natural gas pipeline into a high-capacity water delivery system. This shift from fossil fuel transport to water equity demonstrates how old systems can be revived to meet modern needs.

The scale and ambition of these efforts reflect one of the largest private-public water collaborations in Southern California. Unlike traditional infrastructure projects, Cadiz’s model blends utility-scale engineering with hyperlocal engagement, designing systems that are both technically sound and socially responsive.

From Supply to Treatment: A Full-Circle Solution

With the acquisition of ATEC Systems, Cadiz is expanding its impact into purification. The company now offers scalable treatment for PFAS, arsenic, and nitrates, chemicals that disproportionately affect small towns and rural communities. This positions Cadiz as an end-to-end water company, equally committed to providing access and ensuring safety.

Cadiz’s approach is not only functional, but also inclusive. Their governance model invites collaboration with Tribal Nations and public water districts, embedding equity into the infrastructure itself. The Mojave Groundwater Bank, for example, is managed in partnership with the Fenner Valley Water Authority and several tribal governments, forming what could become the largest tribal-led water project in the country.

Environmental Responsibility and Regional Resilience

Every Cadiz project is grounded in environmental responsibility. Their 7,400-acre desert tortoise preserve and renewable energy leases reflect a commitment to sustainable development across their 45,000-acre landholding. Independent aquifer monitoring programs further ensure that resources are responsibly managed, even as water demand grows.

At the same time, the economic benefits are significant. Cadiz projects are expected to create thousands of jobs and generate nearly $900 million in economic output, while prioritizing local labor and veteran hiring. Water deliveries are set to begin in 2027 for communities across the Antelope Valley, Coachella Valley, and surrounding regions.

A Model for the Future

Under the leadership of CEO Susan Kennedy, a veteran of California public policy, Cadiz blends private initiative with public impact. By partnering with local agencies, investing in infrastructure reuse, and deploying modern water treatment, they offer a replicable model for other arid regions facing climate pressure.

If you live in the West, water is no longer a guarantee, but with projects like the Mojave Groundwater Bank, Cadiz is working to make it one again. Their integrated approach to water management may become a standard for communities far beyond California.

The Best Ways to Receive International Payments as a Freelancer

ABC Staff
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0
The Best Ways to Receive International Payments as a Freelancer

The freelance world is growing and evolving with every passing day, especially when you consider how much competition there is out there. To make sure that you can scale your business the smart way, you need to know how you can do business with professionals and businesses in other countries. While your domestic account is fine for domestic clients, it will generally prove to be a slow and expensive way to receive international payments. 

In this quick guide, we’re going to show you how to receive international payments quickly and efficiently so that you can focus on what you do best. 

Avoid the offer of gift cards and codes 

You may not think it will ever happen, but it will actually occur far more often than you think. If you’re working for a small business or an individual who has never hired anyone from abroad before, the chances are they will have no idea how to make an international money transfer. For this reason, it is not uncommon for a client to ask you if they can pay you with Amazon vouchers or gift cards. They are not trying to get out of paying you what they owe; it’s just that they understand how these other options work. Politely declining and following the tips below is the best approach to take. 

Expand beyond marketplace restrictions 

Many freelancers start off by advertising their services on platforms like Freelancer and UpWork, only to then decide that they want to branch out and go solo. The problem is that you may not know how to get paid except through the marketplace, so you use their invoicing system and get confined to their platform once more. These types of restrictions can be easily avoided, provided you know what to do instead. 

Leverage the SWIFT network 

The SWIFT network is the gold standard when it comes to international money transfers, and that means it’s something every successful freelancer needs to be using. The idea is that every bank and bank account has a unique code that ensures the money lands exactly where it needs to. You can use a SWIFT code format guide to make sure that you always provide your clients with your exact international bank details. Doing so will prevent time-consuming delays and help things run smoothly when you are onboarding a new client. 

Formalise your terms and conditions 

Having a document that outlines how, when, and where you should be paid for your services is essential when you want to move beyond marketplaces. Including your full international banking details so that payment can be made quickly and correctly is essential. Freelancers who send such a document to new clients so that they can sign and return it before the work begins will be giving themselves a safety net. It’s all about making sure that your clients know how you need to be paid so that they can confirm this is something they can do. 

Educate yourself about scams

If a client sends a link asking you to click on it when you haven’t sent your terms and conditions and discussed payment methods, this should be a warning sign. Unsolicited approaches like this are likely to be attempts to scam you out of money and important financial details. Make sure to delete the message and mark the sender as spam without clicking on the link. That way, you will be able to protect your freelance business and your personal details. 

Use a transfer service that offers tracking 

We’ve mentioned leveraging the SWIFT network, but what does that actually mean? If you partner with an international money transfer service with a strong reputation and an established user base, you will be able to use the SWIFT network. Looking for a service that is streamlined, stress-free, and has an intuitive user interface, and it will prove priceless before you know it. You will also want to make sure that the transfer service offers a live tracking function. Knowing where the money for your latest big invoice is and how long it will take to arrive in your account is essential for your peace of mind and well-being. 

The last word 

Now that you know what to do, we hope you’re ready to take your freelance business to the next level. There is a whole world of professionals and businesses out there who want to pay for your services. Go out there and show them what you can do, and you will be able to continually grow and evolve so that you are always ahead of the crowd.

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